Effects of organic farming system on some nutritional parameters of tomatoes fruits at different ripening stages

Abstract

Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum L.) are the most cultivated and consumed vegetable species in the world and deserve special attention due to their nutritional and functional value. The aim of this study was to assess the nutritional value of organically grown tomatoes in greenhouses, at different maturity phases. Five hybrids were studied: Antalya F1, Cemile F1, Lorely F1, Tiger F1 and Sacher F1. The observed parameters in each harvest phase were: Content of chlorophyll a and b, total carotenoids, total soluble solids (TSS), ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and titratable acidity (TA). Taking into account the content of TSS and TA, taste and maturity index was established. Tiger F1, Sacher F1 and Cemile F1 hybrids were significantly standing out for all analysed parameters. Sacher F1 had a carotene content of 10.3 mg 100 g-1 FW in green fruit and 17.0 mg 100 g-1 FW in red fruit. Vitamin C was 6.2 mg 100 g-1 FW in green fruits, increasing to 16.0 mg 100 g-1 FW in red fruits. The mineral content depended on the hybrid and harvest stage. In the rose phase the highest K content was in Cemile F1 (151.53 mg 100-1 g), Ca in Lorely F1 (8.16 mg 100 g-1), Mg in Sacher F1 and Tiger F1 with values over 22.0 mg 100 g-1, and Tiger F1 and Sacher F1 distinguish in Zn, Cu and Fe content. In the red fruit phase, Tiger F1 and Sacher F1 hybrids are representative for almost all minerals excepting Lorely F1 and Cemile F1.